STOKE CITY are delighted to announce Stephen Ireland has committed his long-term future to the Club.

The 27-year-old midfielder has signed a three-year contract, tying him to the Potters until the end of the 2016/17 season.

Ireland joined City from Aston Villa earlier this in an initial loan deal that was made permanent during the January transfer window. He has made 27 league and cup appearances and has scored two Premier League goals.

His move to the Britannia Stadium saw him reunited with Mark Hughes, who had been his manager at his first club Manchester City.

Ireland enjoyed arguably the most successful period of his career so far under Hughes at City as he won the club's Player of the Year award, as well as a whole host of plaudits.

Hughes today expressed his delight at securing his services in a long-term deal, telling stokecityfc.com: "We're delighted that Stephen has committed himself to us. He's an outstanding player; I think we've seen that in the time that he's been with us.

"He's someone I've worked with before and that will help Stephen because he enjoys working in a stable environment where he knows people. I think that gets the best out of him and we'll reap the benefits of that and I think the next few years will be great for him.

"He's still a young man and we’re arguably getting him at a time in his career when he should be at the peak of his powers. I think it's a great opportunity both for Stephen and the Club."

City Chief Executive Tony Scholes said: "From talking to Stephen it's evident that he has really enjoyed his time with us so far.

"He was grateful for the opportunity we gave him to play first team football on a regular basis again and we are pleased to have secured his services for another three years."